Texas Governor Greg Abbott (R) highlighted the economic and national security importance of the state's oil and gas sector during remarks at the Texas Independent Producers & Royalty Owners Association's (TIPRO) 80th Annual Convention.
"The world has recognized the critical role Texas, and Texas oil and gas, plays in global security," said Abbott, crediting the industry with helping drive both state and national energy independence. "Quite simply, Texas would not be able to achieve what it does without the contributions of the oil and gas sector."
Abbott emphasized that Texas leads the nation in energy production, supplying nearly one-fourth of all domestically produced energy in the United States. He also tied the industry's success to broader state priorities, including infrastructure, education funding, and border security.
He used the event to highlight recent legislative efforts aimed at protecting the industry, particularly new measures passed during the 89th legislative session to combat oil theft.
The reforms include increased criminal penalties for petroleum theft, the creation of a specialized "Theft Prevention Unit" within the Texas Department of Public Safety, and expanded authority for law enforcement to seize stolen fuel and inspect tankers.
He also underscored the role of oil and gas in maintaining grid reliability, calling it a foundational energy source for Texas's power system amid rising demand.
The governor was joined at the convention by several state leaders, including Jim Wright, chairman of the Texas Railroad Commission, as well as state representatives Briscoe Cain and Charles Cunningham, along with industry officials and business leaders.
Abbott's remarks reinforce Texas's continued commitment to fossil fuel production as a cornerstone of its economy, even as energy demand grows and debates over the future of energy policy continue nationwide.
